PIKES OF CLARE VALLEY

Pikes have been making beverages since 1886, when they first released their beer (which returned in 1996). Pikes launched soft drinks in 1940, and wine in 1985. The name has become synonymous with great-value riesling, the Clare Valley’s hero white variety.

PIKES, TRADITIONALE, RIESLING, 2021

Bottled in traditional brown glass: all lime flesh/pith/juice with green apple skin, crushed talc, hints of musk and light blossom. Tight, linear profile: limey citrus with the slightest touch of sweetness to balance the vibrant, juicy acid drive. Rating: 92/100

RRP: $26

Alc: 11.5 per cent

PIKES, LUCCIO, FIANO, 2021

Trophy winner for Best Other White Variety at the recent Royal Adelaide Wine Show. Lemon citrus, baked shortcrust, pencil shavings, apple blossom, papaya and green melon. Just medium bodied with generous fruit, bracing acidity and a long, textural finish.

Rating: 95/100

RRP: $24

Alc: 12 per cent

PIKES, THE DOGWALK, CABERNETS, 2019

Seventy-five per cent cabernet sauvignon and 25 per cent cabernet franc. Blackcurrant, mulberry, olive tapenade, dusty grated dark chocolate and a cedary oak. Medium bodied. Fine, elegant tannins support ripe dark berry fruit with a fresh mint edge and bright acidity. Rating: 92/100

RRP: $24

Alc: 13.5 per cent